Protect Yourself and Those Around You
Schedule your flu shot today

While flu season doesn't kick into high gear for another couple of months, it's not too early to start planning for you and your employees' annual flu shot.

The flu is a contagious illness caused by influenza (flu) viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and even death. Some people are at higher risk for serious flu complications. So, the best way to prevent getting the flu is to get a flu shot every year.

Flu shots don't cause the flu

But they can help your body fight the flu if you or your employee are exposed to it. Every year there is a different strain of flu, so every year you and your employees need to get a flu shot.

Why should you and your employee get a flu shot this season?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months and older get a flu shot. Talk to the doctor if you or your employees have questions about whether or not to get one.

Simple everyday actions can help prevent the spread of the flu

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Stay home when sick.

Cover the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing. Cough or sneeze into a tissue or the inside of the elbow. Think of germs spreading like wet paint on the hands. And be careful not to touch the eyes, nose and mouth.

Take care of the body. Get plenty of sleep, exercise, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat healthy foods.

Keep in mind that you and your employee can schedule an annual physical at the same time as the flu shot. CoverTN pays 100 percent of the cost for physicals and certain other preventive services. Preventive benefits do not count toward CoverTN's annual limits. Flu shots are available for a regular doctor copay in the event a physical has already been completed. Find out more about benefits by calling Member Services at 1-888-887-3224. You and your employee may also call this number for help finding a doctor or making an appointment.

Everyone needs protection. So, call the doctor today to make an appointment for the annual flu shot!

BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, Inc., an Independent Licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association.

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BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, Inc., an Independent Licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association

The information in this newsletter is not meant to take the place of a doctor's advice.